The Valentine

Cupid pays a visit to the Antiques Roadshow in this lengthy homage to the valentine (video-label title: "The Valentine & Expressions of Love"). Beginning with the story of St. Valentius in 276 A.D. Rome, followed by a discussion of the pagan gods Hymen and Cupid, and Chaucer's description of mating birds, the tape traces the subtle shift in the word's connotation from the subject of one's affection to a sentimental card given on February 14th. Focusing primarily on the formats and styles of English, German, and American 19th century love tokens, The Valentine offers viewers a look at many, many valentines from the collection of Nancy Rosin, including rare folk-art, letter and comedic valentines, fans, dolls, and other collectibles. The production values are fine, though somewhat dry, and since the tape is really long, it might not be "quick-fix" enough for an "it's due tomorrow" school project (a better choice for the homework crowd would be Holidays for Children: Valentine's Day, reviewed in VL-1/95), but for those patrons truly interested in the subject from a collectibles/historical stand-point, it'd make a fine addition to your collection. Aud: C, P. (K. Glaser)